FDA Issues Recall on Connecticut-Made Pasta Sauce Over Health Concerns
Pasta sauces produced by First and Last Bakery, LLC, based in Hartford, Connecticut, have been recalled due to health concerns. The recall was initiated following a warning from the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection, with the endorsement of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Details of the Recall
The recalled products include three specific types of pasta sauces:
- First and Last Original Marinara Sauce
- Tomato & Basil First and Last Original Traditional Pasta Sauce
- Meat Flavored First and Last Original Puttanesca Sauce, Mildly Hot & Spicy
These items were distributed across several retailers, including Big Y, in both Connecticut and Massachusetts. The distribution period ranged from September 22 to October 28 of this year.
Health Risks Associated with the Products
The FDA has indicated that the products were manufactured without an approved scheduled process. This oversight poses a serious risk as it could lead to the formation of botulism, a potentially fatal foodborne illness.
No illnesses have been reported to date. However, consumers should be aware of the severe symptoms associated with botulism. These include:
- General weakness
- Dizziness
- Double vision
- Difficulty speaking or swallowing
- Breathing difficulties
- Muscle weakness
- Abdominal distension
- Constipation
Next Steps for Consumers
First and Last Bakery has stopped the sales and production of these sauces to ensure compliance with regulatory standards. Consumers who purchased these products are advised to discard them to avoid any health risks.
For further updates regarding food safety and recalls, residents are encouraged to keep an eye on announcements from the FDA and local health departments.